In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia speaks with Josh Gould, CEO of thebigword, a global language services company operating in over 80 countries.

As a second-generation leader, Josh shares insights on navigating leadership transitions, building professional management teams, and embracing AI early. He discusses proving himself beyond his family name, conducting annual self-assessments, and balancing private equity involvement while preserving family values. Josh also highlights AI's role in enhancing, not replacing, human translators, and emphasizes that outdated leadership models, not technology, pose the greatest threat to family businesses.

Check out Josh's work HERE.

Connect with Josh on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia speaks with Steven Portrude, second-generation President of Harwill Express Press, a family printing business founded in 1973.

Steven shares how he transformed the company from a neighborhood print shop into a print management and event support firm. Key insights include prioritizing cash flow improvements, observing before making changes, and proactively reinventing the business model, including during COVID-19. Steven emphasizes balancing sustainable growth with family values, treating employees with respect, and viewing technology as a tool rather than a solution, while maintaining integrity throughout decades of leadership.

Check out Steven's work HERE.

Connect with Steven on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia interviews Richard Haig, second-generation CEO of Haig Service Corporation.

Richard shares how his father's side business installing TV antennas evolved into a nationally recognized life safety and security company. He discusses stepping away twice to pursue endurance athletics and fitness ventures, and returning to lead the company's growth through strategic acquisitions. Richard also explores how AI and automation are positively impacting his industry, and reflects on building a legacy that may eventually involve private equity, ensuring long-term value for both employees and future generations of his family.

Check out Richard's work HERE.

Connect with Richard on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia speaks with Chris Bingaman, third-generation CEO of Bingaman & Son Lumber, an 80-year-old Pennsylvania hardwood manufacturer.

Chris shares lessons learned from his grandfather and father, emphasizing integrity and curiosity. He discusses the deliberate decision to appoint a non-family president, using profiling tools and staged leadership tests to ensure the right fit. Chris also opens up about surviving cancer, implementing an ESOP, and making the company's largest-ever capital investment, including AI-powered lumber grading. The conversation highlights how thoughtful succession planning and strong values drive long-term family business success.

Check out Chris's work HERE.

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia speaks with Cherie O'Connor, third-generation Manager of Pelican Shops, a family-owned seasonal retail business.

Cherie shares the history behind the iconic Pelican name, the unique dual-season business model spanning winter ski gear and summer outdoor living products, and how four independently operated family-owned locations collaborate under one brand. She discusses her journey back to the family business, adapting to e-commerce, implementing modern technology, and leveraging AI. Cherie also reflects on resilience through economic downturns and weather challenges, while looking ahead to the fourth generation's future with the company.

Check out Cherie's work HERE.

Connect with Cherie on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia speaks with Doug Hyman, President and CEO of US Supply.

Doug shares his journey from childhood visits to his father's branches to gradually earning leadership through hard work. He discusses navigating family dynamics with his sister, managing a strong founder presence, and balancing legacy relationships with modern demands. The conversation explores how Amazon, e-commerce, and emerging AI are reshaping contractor buying behavior, the importance of human connection in a digital world, and the growing opportunity in skilled trades.

Check out Doug's work HERE.

Connect with Doug on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia speaks with Patrick McDermott, Vice President Business Banking at First Bank.

Patrick shares insights from his decades-long banking career, emphasizing the value of relationship-driven, needs-based banking for entrepreneurial and middle-market businesses. They discuss the importance of proactive strategic planning, responsible growth, and operational discipline for family-owned businesses. Patrick also explores the evolving lending landscape, including SBA programs, access to capital, and the emerging role of AI in banking operations, stressing that strong banker-client relationships are essential for navigating today's complex economic environment.

Check out Patrick's work HERE.

Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, host Ed Delia speaks with Alexandra Groezinger, President of Groezinger Provisions Inc. and steward of the Alexian brand.

Alexandra shares how her father founded the company in 1982 before passing away unexpectedly, leaving her resilient mother to grow the business. After studying psychology at the University of Vermont and gaining corporate experience, Alexandra returned to lead the company through major milestones, including navigating COVID-19 and executing a successful rebrand. She reflects on balancing legacy with innovation, being a woman in a male-dominated industry, and her commitment to preserving the family business for future generations.

Check out Alexandra's work HERE.

Connect with Alexandra on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia speaks with Boaz Gilad, Founder of Zenith Clubhouse, who shares his journey from building a public real estate company to losing it through a hostile takeover and bankruptcy. Boaz reflects on the psychological toll of business failure, the difference between motivation and discipline, and the importance of goal setting. The conversation also explores challenges in family-governed businesses, generational transitions, and the growing impact of AI. Boaz emphasizes that sustained success requires disciplined systems, adaptability, and aligning ambition with genuine commitment to the work involved.

Check out Boaz's work HERE.

Connect with Boaz on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

In this episode of Growing Up B2B, your host Ed Delia speaks with Bernie and Ben Skalny of Willow Group Ltd., a family business founded in 1928 by Polish immigrant Ludwig Skalny. Bernie, Owner & President and the third-generation leader, reflects on the company's evolution from basket weaving to a multi-division operation, emphasizing customer relationships and adaptability. Ben, Project Manager and the fourth generation, discusses modernizing the business through digital tools, AI, and new sales channels like Faire. Together, they explore the challenges of balancing tradition with innovation, navigating tariffs and shifting retail landscapes, and planning for a smooth generational transition.

Check out Bernie and Ben's work HERE.

Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn HERE.

Connect with Ben on LinkedIn HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.